Puberty is already a wild ride — mood swings, growth spurts, voice cracks, mystery smells — and for some kids, a return (or persistence) of bedwetting joins the mix. It’s confusing, frustrating, and often a little embarrassing for them. But here’s the truth: it’s more common than most people think, and it’s rarely anyone’s fault.

So let’s take a closer look at what’s really going on inside growing bodies and how you can help your child feel secure, supported, and dry through it all.

The Hormone Puzzle

Hormones are the invisible directors of puberty, calling the shots on everything from height to emotions — and yes, even bladder control.

During puberty, one hormone in particular, vasopressin (also called antidiuretic hormone), plays a big role. Its job is to tell the kidneys to make less urine at night. But not every kid’s body gets the memo at the same time. Some teens don’t yet produce enough vasopressin overnight, which means their bladders fill faster than their brains can wake them up.

Add in the chaos of growth spurts, changing sleep patterns, and stress hormones like cortisol, and it’s no wonder things can go a little haywire. Bedwetting during puberty doesn’t mean a child is “regressing.” It means their body is still calibrating — and that’s okay.

Why Stress and Sleep Matter

Puberty is a stressful time. New schools, social pressure, body image changes — it’s a lot. Stress doesn’t just affect moods; it also affects how the bladder and brain communicate.

When a child is anxious or overtired, their body may release more stress hormones, which can interfere with sleep cycles and bladder signals. Combine that with a deeper sleep pattern (puberty often makes kids harder to wake), and accidents can happen even if they seemed “over it” before.

You might notice that wet nights come in clusters — for example, during exam weeks, after arguments, or when big life changes happen. That’s not coincidence. It’s biology under pressure.

Common Triggers Around This Age

Every child’s path through puberty looks different, but some triggers for renewed or continued bedwetting include:

• Growth spurts – the body’s needs are changing fast, and sometimes the bladder doesn’t keep up.
• Later bedtimes – with more independence often comes less sleep, which affects bladder control.
• Caffeine or fizzy drinks – more common as kids get older, but both can irritate the bladder.
• Irregular routines – late nights, sleepovers, or sports camps can throw off patterns.
• Hormonal shifts – especially around menstruation for girls, when fluid balance changes.

These aren’t signs of failure. They’re simply reminders that kids are still learning to manage a body that’s evolving at full speed.

Talking About It (Without the Awkwardness)

Older kids are hyper-aware of anything that makes them feel “babyish.” So when it comes to talking about bedwetting, tone is everything. Here’s how to keep it cool:

• Use matter-of-fact language. No drama, no teasing — just straight-up empathy.
• Give them privacy and control. Let them handle cleanup or choose their own bedtime pants if they want.
• Keep it between you. They need to know this isn’t gossip material, even among siblings.
• Reassure, don’t overreact. A calm “No biggie, we’ve got this” works better than endless reminders.

Your confidence tells them it’s something to manage, not something to hide.

How to Help (Without Making It Worse)

You can’t rush biology, but you can make life a lot easier while their body catches up.

1. Stick to a routine. Consistent bedtimes, calm evenings, and a predictable bathroom stop before lights out can make a big difference.
2. Watch fluids, don’t ban them. Encourage hydration through the day, but ease up on sugary or fizzy drinks after dinner.
3. Use absorbent, comfy protection. Modern leak-proof pants (like ahem Nundies) are quiet, breathable, and designed for older kids who just want to sleep comfortably without fuss.
4. No punishments or rewards. Bedwetting isn’t a behaviour to fix; it’s a developmental phase to support.
5. Check in with your GP if needed. Especially if accidents suddenly start again after months of dryness or come with pain, constipation, or other symptoms.

When to Expect Change

For most kids, bedwetting naturally resolves as hormone levels even out and sleep cycles mature — usually by the mid-teens. But remember: there’s no single “normal” timeline.

Some kids stop at eight. Others, at thirteen. A few, later. What matters is that you’re providing calm, practical support and helping them protect their self-esteem along the way.

The Bigger Picture

Bedwetting during puberty isn’t just about sheets and sleep. It’s about helping kids feel capable in their changing bodies. Puberty already tests their confidence — so every gesture of understanding from you is powerful.

By treating it as just another part of growing up, you teach them resilience, self-kindness, and perspective. And that’s a lot more valuable than a dry night alone.

A Quick Word from Nundies 💬

At Nundies, we know older kids want solutions that feel discreet, comfy, and age-appropriate — not childish. That’s why our leak-proof pants are soft, breathable, and made to look and feel like regular underwear. They’re for dreamers, late sleepers, and everyone still finding their rhythm.

Because growing up is messy enough — bedtime shouldn’t be.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice. If you’re concerned about your child’s bedwetting or notice sudden changes, please consult your GP or healthcare provider.